R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre.) 2021

Colossal Ancient Statuary

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Among Mauryan idols, the idol inscribed with the name Manibhadra (Yaksha) was found from which place?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Yaksha worship was a dominant folk tradition in ancient India, and colossal Yaksha statues from the Mauryan and Post-Mauryan periods represent the earliest large-scale stone sculptures in India.

Explanation The famous inscribed Yaksha statue representing 'Manibhadra' was discovered at Parkham, near Mathura. Standing at over 2.5 meters, it features a Brahmi inscription identifying it as the image of Yaksha Manibhadra, made by the artist Gomitaka.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: While Besnagar has a famous Yakshi and Noh has another Yaksha, the specific 'Manibhadra' inscription is uniquely associated with the Parkham find.
Logic 2: This statue is a key reference point for the 'Mathura School's' transition into monumental iconic art.

Active Recall

Question

Who was Manibhadra in ancient Indian lore?

Answer

Manibhadra was considered the chief of the Yakshas and a popular deity associated with wealth and merchant protection.

Core Insight

The Parkham Yaksha demonstrates that stone sculpture in India began with powerful, massive depictions of folk deities before the iconic representation of the Buddha.